Town rallies to support gay hostage
Due to an influx of traffic regarding an earlier report on the return of hostage, James Loney, from Iraq, PinkNews.co.uk is delighted to acknowledge the overwhelming and heartfelt support from the peacemaker’s hometown on our message boards.
Residents of Sault Ste. Marie, are welcoming back James Loney, after his return from captivity since November 2005.
Visitors to the site posted positive messages about Mr Loney, Kevin Lamour said: “I can tell you without doubt, that everyone here in Sault Ste. Marie is grateful that our prayers have been answered and James is coming home. His sexual orientation has no impact on this sentiment.
“As a community we understand that he needs some time to reacquaint himself with his loved ones after his terrible ordeal and we plan to give him his space.
“However, our city we will welcome him home and give him the tribute that he deserves.”
His thoughts were echoed throughout the message board, Tom Caswell said: “James has been and will continue to be welcomed into our community with open arms and love.”
Deb Van Scoy said: “My heart bled for James Loney the whole time he was in captivity and so did the hearts of the rest of our fine city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. We are 100% celebrating his release.”
Readers were dismayed at an original report in which it appears our sources in Canada were incorrect. Our reporter, Katherine Knowles, said she was sorry that her original article had been misconstrued but was delighted to see read all the support on the board, “I am very sorry that my piece has been interpreted in this way.
“I was and indeed am very impressed with the attitude of the people in Sault Ste. Marie. I think that your local paper has been hugely supportive, the photo page is a lovely idea, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the fact that you are putting ribbons on trees and making wreaths to support Mr Loney. I have quoted city Chief Administrative Officer Joe Fratesi as saying: “He’s one of our own. He was out on a mission of peace. He was out there doing good work,” which I thought would show that the town is fully supportive of Mr Loney, and the terrible experience that he must have been through.
“I confidently hope and expect that when Mr Loney comes home with his family that he will be welcomed by his home town.
“I have removed the word “parade” from the headline, as I understand that it could have caused confusion, and I have re edited the piece to ensure that it will not be misinterpreted again.”
